Cyclone Ockhi has intensified into severe cyclonic storm with heavy rainfall lashing the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The death toll has risen to 12 and figures are likely to go up. Making a straight dive for the Lakshadweep Islands the cyclone has left over 250 fishermen stranded in the high seas. Joint rescue operations are currently underway in full swing by the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force. The government has opened 13 relief camps to provide assistance to the affected people along the coast.